How to Style Loafers for Women Over 50: 7 Outfits That Work
Loafers solve a problem that heels and sneakers cannot: they look polished, they are flat, and they go with almost everything. For women over 50 they have become the everyday shoe, and for good reason. Below are seven outfits that work, plus the practical questions: can you wear loafers in summer, in winter, to a wedding, and what makes a loafer comfortable enough for a full day.
1. Loafers With Straight Jeans and a Blazer
The easiest loafer outfit there is. Choose a dark or mid-wash straight jean that ends at the ankle, a fitted knit or a white shirt, and a single-breasted blazer. Black or brown leather loafers finish it. This works for lunch, the office on Friday and travel days. Find the pieces in jeans, blazers and loafers.
2. Loafers With a Midi Dress
A midi dress with loafers is the modern alternative to a dress with heels: elegant, but you can walk all day. The trick is the hem. A midi that ends mid-calf shows enough ankle to keep the proportions light. Pair a floral or solid midi dress with loafers in a neutral color, and add a cardigan in fall.
3. Loafers With Wide-Leg Pants
Wide-leg pants and loafers are a favorite of women over 50 because the long line of the pant flatters the leg and the flat shoe keeps it comfortable. Keep the top fitted or tucked so the outfit does not become shapeless. See wide-leg pants.
4. Loafers With Tailored Pants for Work
For the office, loafers replace pumps without losing polish. Tailored pants with a slight crop, a blouse and a pointed or classic leather loafer in black or burgundy. A low block-heel loafer adds a little height if you want it.
5. Loafers With a Skirt and Tights
In fall and winter, a midi skirt, opaque tights and loafers is warm and put together. Choose a wrap or A-line skirt and a fine turtleneck or sweater on top.
6. Loafers With Cropped Pants in Summer
Yes, loafers work in summer. Wear them without socks, or with a no-show sock, with cropped pants or linen trousers and a short-sleeve blouse. Lighter colors such as beige, tan and white keep it summery.
7. Loafers With a Two-Piece Set
A matching knit or tailored set with loafers is a complete outfit in two minutes and looks intentional. It is a favorite for travel because every piece also works separately.
What Makes a Loafer Comfortable?
Three things: a cushioned insole, arch support and a sole with a little flexibility. Orthopedic loafers combine all three and are the best choice if you stand or walk for hours. Riley New York has more than 20 orthopedic loafers with arch support in the orthopedic and comfort shoes collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you wear loafers to a wedding?
For a daytime or casual wedding, yes: a polished leather or pointed loafer with a midi dress looks elegant. For a formal evening wedding, heels remain the safer choice.
Can you wear loafers in winter?
Yes, with fine socks or tights and pants or a skirt. Choose a closed, leather-look loafer rather than a suede or open style, and avoid deep snow.
Should loafers be tight or loose?
Snug at the heel with no slipping, and room for the toes. Leather loafers give a little with wear; if you are between sizes or have a wide foot, choose the larger size.
What color loafers are the most versatile?
Black first, then brown or tan. A burgundy or dark green loafer is a good third pair for fall.
Ready to try one of these outfits? Start with the women's loafers collection: every pair is 50 to 70% off with free US shipping and 30-day returns.